Processes and ITTOs (Inputs, Tools, Techniques, and Outputs)

 

Summary of Processes and ITTOs (Inputs, Tools, Techniques, and Outputs)

1. Definition of a Process:

   • A process is a series of steps or actions performed to achieve a specific goal.
   • Example: Brushing teeth is a process aimed at achieving clean teeth.

2. What are ITTOs?:

   • ITTO stands for Inputs, Tools, Techniques, and Outputs:
     • Inputs: Resources or information needed to start the process.
     • Tools and Techniques: Methods, software, or techniques used to perform the process.
     • Outputs: The result or deliverable produced by the process.

3. Examples of ITTOs:

   • Brushing Teeth:
     • Input: Toothbrush, toothpaste, water.
     • Tools/Techniques: Flossing, proper brushing technique.
     • Output: Clean teeth, no cavities.
   • Developing a Project Charter:
     • Input: Business documents, organizational templates (OPAs), regulations (EEFs).
     • Tools/Techniques: Expert judgment, meetings.
     • Output: Project Charter.

4. ITTOs in the 49 Processes:

   • Every process in project management has specific ITTOs.
   • Example:
     • Develop Project Charter: Inputs include templates (OPAs) and regulations (EEFs). Tools include expert judgment and meetings. The output is the Project Charter.
     • Define Scope: Inputs include the Project Management Plan. Tools may involve expert judgment, and the output is the Scope Statement.

5. Common ITTOs:

   • Many processes share similar ITTOs, reducing the complexity of learning them.
   • Common Inputs:
     • Enterprise Environmental Factors (EEFs).
     • Organizational Process Assets (OPAs).
   • Common Tools and Techniques:
     • Expert judgment, meetings, data gathering.
   • Common Outputs:
     • Deliverables, updates to project plans, and project documentation.

6. Key Insights:

   • Repetition:
     • Many ITTOs are shared across processes, simplifying learning.
   • Commonality and Uniqueness:
     • Some ITTOs are unique to specific processes (e.g., Stakeholder Register for Identify Stakeholders).
   • Focus on Common ITTOs First:
     • Understanding the common ITTOs eliminates the need to memorize 700+ combinations.

7. Real-Life Applications:

   • ITTOs guide project managers in structuring their work efficiently.
   • Example: For a food product launch, regulations (EEFs) and templates (OPAs) would guide the creation of a compliant project charter.

8. Exam and Practical Preparation:

   • For Exams:
     • Understand ITTOs conceptually rather than memorizing them.
     • Focus on recognizing common patterns in ITTOs across processes.
   • In Real Life:
     • Apply ITTOs as tools to streamline planning, execution, and monitoring of projects.

9. Key Takeaway:

   • ITTOs Simplified:
     • Inputs: "What you need."
     • Tools/Techniques: "How you do it."
     • Outputs: "What you achieve."
   • Mastering ITTOs helps both in passing exams and becoming an effective project manager.

10. Highlighted Points:

    • Understand, Don’t Memorize:
      • Grasp the purpose and application of ITTOs rather than rote learning.
    • Practical Use:
      • Study ITTOs to apply them effectively in real-world projects.

Key Takeaway:

Understanding ITTOs is fundamental to project management. They guide the structure of each process and are key to aligning project tasks with objectives. "Learn ITTOs to plan efficiently, execute effectively, and deliver successfully."